Learning and development

Grow your career with us - from your very first day.

At Lifeways, we don’t just invest in social care learning. We invest in you. Whether you're starting out, returning to work, changing careers, or bringing years of care experience with you, we’ll give you the tools, support, and confidence to thrive and make a real impact.

We believe everyone deserves a great start – that’s why our learning and development programme puts you at the centre of your own journey from day one.

Not sure if care is for you? You’re not alone

We know adult social care isn’t always the first job people consider, but for many of our team, it became the most meaningful one.

Whether you’ve worked in retail, hospitality, the military, or stayed home raising kids, if you’re looking for purpose, we’ll help you build a career that makes a life-changing difference.

If you’re not yet sure where you fit, find out what role you can play at Lifeways.

Starting strong - your induction journey

Joining a new organisation is a big step. That’s why we make sure your social care induction journey with us feel welcoming, purposeful, and full of support.

Whether you're returning to work after raising a family, stepping into a new chapter after retiring, or starting fresh from a different industry, our induction is tailored to meet you where you are. We’ll support your journey every step of the way, ensuring you feel confident and ready to make a meaningful impact.

We want to make you feel welcome before you even start with Lifeways.

You'll have access to the following:

Video welcome from our Chief Executive

Information on our Lifeways Values

Video explaining your Induction Learning Journey

Information on Lifeways Buddy System

That’s just the beginning

From your very first day, we’ll guide you through a structured induction designed to set you up for success.

Our six-day induction programme gives you the confidence, skills, and knowledge to hit the ground running - with the right support behind you.

Here’s what to expect:

Interactive virtual learning

... to give you the tools to do your role brilliantly and safely.

A personal welcome from our senior leaders

... who personally join inductions to share our vision, answer your questions, and remind you that your voice and contribution matter from day one.

A shadow shift

... so you can get to know your team and the people you’ll be supporting.

Service-specific training

... tailored to your role and the individuals in your care.

You’ll leave your induction feeling like you belong, have the tools and knowledge to start your role and be ready to make a difference.

Learning that lasts

Your growth doesn’t stop after your induction. In fact, that’s just the beginning.

At Lifeways, we know that investing in our people is how we deliver the best possible support. That’s why we offer flexible, blended social care learning designed to fit around your life, whether you’re new to care or bringing years of experience with you.

Interactive social care e-learning and hands-on workshops

From interactive e-learning to hands-on workshops, your development journey is tailored to you. You’ll have regular one-to-ones with your manager to reflect, review, and shape your next steps because we’re as invested in your growth as you are.

We’ve built a dedicated programme to help every team member strengthen their skills, grow their confidence, and deliver truly life-changing support.

Discover our team member portals to access:

Royal recognition, two years in a row

Our people make the difference, so we’re committed to helping them learn, grow and build rewarding careers. Recognised in both 2025 and 2026, the prestigious Princess Royal Training Awards celebrate our commitment to learning, development and apprenticeships, creating opportunities for team members to develop their skills and make an even greater difference to the people we support.

Here’s how we’ve been investing in our people...

1,000+ training courses delivered

Everyone gets nearly four days of training or more depending on the role

All training modules refreshed to deepen impact

A unified approach to behaviour support rolled out, improving safety and consistency

Qualifications and accreditations through trusted partners

Clear career frameworks to guide your next move

Leadership programmes if growing into people management is your goal

Powered by Potential - Adult Care Apprenticeships and Beyond

Never studied formally before? Don’t worry - we’ve got you.

We invest in you from day one. That’s why, once you join Lifeways, you’ll be eligible to take part in an apprenticeship programme that suits your role, goals, and pace.

Our apprenticeships are designed to be supportive, practical, and confidence-building. Whether you’re just starting out, changing careers, or ready to take your next step, we’ll back you all the way.

A wide range of adult care apprenticeships at Lifeways

We offer a wide range of apprenticeships - from Level 2 to Level 5 - in subjects from Health & Social Care to Leadership and Coaching.

So whether you’re a return-to-work mum, an Armed Forces veteran, a retiree looking for purpose, or someone ready for a fresh start - we’ll meet you where you are, and help you grow from there.

Read Jemma's apprenticeship story

smiling support worker with a person we support

Here’s what our learners are saying:

48%

achieved a distinction

42%

have been promoted or taken on new responsibilities

97%

say their apprenticeship helped them reach their career goals

I was selected for the senior talent programme last year and am currently studying at Leeds University doing my L7 Diploma in Executive Leadership. I was advised that I had been chosen as one of the leaders for the future. Having this level of investment in me by the organisation makes me feel proud of my achievements and grateful for the belief in my abilities.

Catherine Bircumshaw, Area Manager

Developing our future leaders

Looking to grow your career in care? At Lifeways, we offer clear pathways to progress, leadership support, and real opportunities - whether you're starting out or stepping up. Discover how your journey with us could change lives, including your own.

Progressing with confidence

Explore career stories

Real people. Real impact. Get inspired by stories from across Lifeways, from first-day nerves to proudest moments and everything in between. See where a Lifeways career can take you.

Be inspired

Current opportunities

It doesn’t matter to us if you’ve worked in the sector or not. What’s important is you want to make a difference, because you’re not just anyone. Check out roles – from superstar support workers and top team leaders to tech wizards and financial experts.

Browse our jobs

Ready to start your Lifeways career?

Whether you’re looking for your first role, returning to work or ready to take the next step in your adult social care career, Lifeways is here to help you grow.

With comprehensive adult social care training, recognised qualifications, apprenticeships and clear paths to career progression, you’ll have the support you need to build a rewarding career while making a real difference to people’s lives.

Explore our latest vacancies and what makes us amazing, and discover how a Lifeways career can help you learn, develop and thrive.